Melissa Henderson returns to Houston Dash

Melissa Henderson announced today that she will come out of retirement to join the Houston Dash for her second full season with the club.

“We are very happy to have Melissa back this season,” Dash managing director Brain Ching said. “She has the mentality we want at this club. Her character and skill will be key in establishing an identity for the Dash as we make a push for the playoffs.”

Henderson, 26, was acquired by the Dash via trade from FC Kansas City in July 2014. She made 29 appearances (22 starts) and notched two assists in one and a half seasons with the Dash.

“I’m really excited about Melissa coming out of retirement. I was shocked when I received her phone call about this, but I should have known that she wasn’t finished with her playing career,” Dash head coach Randy Waldrum said. “Having known her for so many years, I know how competitive and driven she is. I’m excited for the Dash because Melissa brings so much to our team. She is a great ambassador for the Dash, women’s football and for the way she lives her life. I know our fans are going to be excited about this news.”

The forward was a four-year letter winner under Waldrum at the University of Notre Dame. The Garland, Texas native holds a top 10 spot in eight career categories at Notre Dame, including goals (tied for fourth with 70), match-winning goals (first with 24) and hat tricks (tied for first with 6).

“She’s a great player that can play in so many different places for us,” Waldrum said. “She gives us some versatility that we need right now especially with the Olympics this summer.”

Prior to playing at Notre Dame, Henderson was the Gatorade National High School Player of the Year during her junior year at Berkner High School. She also led the Dallas Sting and Dallas Texans to various accolades during her youth club career.